Story, contract rumors begin flying

In the wake of the casting announcement, story rumors are already flying. Today's Daily Mail (which actually got the casting of the Doctor wrong, they said it was Bill Nighy) reports that one of the stories being done for the first season is a Joan of Arc story with guests stars possibly including Audrey Tautou ("Amelie") and Alfred Molina. It's been pointed out to Outpost Gallifrey that Tautou is currently filming a Joan of Arc movie in France so this is probably a case of wires crossed. Meanwhile, says the Express, Eccleston has signed "a three year contract" (this could be speculation on their part). They mention that the official announcement of his signing is due "next week" and that the budget for each episode is "ú1 million". Also, the Daily Record is already talking about a second season (series) of episodes to be broadcast in 2006... though of course, we'll have to see how the first series does!